- Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers
The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to give Victoria's hard-working and dedicated carers the boost they need for well-earned respite.
Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan today announced a package of nearly $50 million to go towards extra respite, transport concessions and grants for initiatives that support carers.
One in five carers give up work to care for someone and young carers drop out of school at a higher rate than their peers, meaning carers tend to have lower incomes or chronic health conditions because they're too busy caring for their loved ones to worry about their own health.
That's why the Labor Government is providing an additional 5,000 Victorian carers with 100,000 hours of respite each year. The big boost will increase the number of carers helped by the Government's Support for Carers program by 60 per cent.
The Government is also providing $4 million to make sure more carers get the emotional support they need and can access the local services that they count on, with grants for grassroots and statewide carer support groups.
Many grants will go towards groups in regional areas, or for those who look after under-recognised groups such as young or LGBTI carers.
The package also includes $3.5 million for half price public transport for Carer Card holders and free travel during Carers Week in October.
The package is part of the Labor Government's Victorian Carers Strategy 2018-22 - our blueprint to ensure Victorian carers get the care that they deserve.
As stated by Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan
"For thousands of Victorians, caring for a loved-one is a never-ending job - and it can take its toll. We're giving them the helping hand that they deserve."
"These extra hours of respite will make sure our carers can also take care of themselves, and not just others."
As stated by Parliamentary Secretary for Carers Anthony Carbines
"Caring is incredibly rewarding, but can also be financially and emotionally demanding. That's why we're pleased to be giving our carers more respite, half price travel and more local support."
